This is one of the most effective tools for sharing the Gospel. The CITA Ministry has been using it since 2014.
Ukraine, Ethiopia, India, countries in South and Latin America (Venezuela, Colombia, Honduras, Peru, Guatemala, Brazil, Bolivia, Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua), South Asia (Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Pakistan), Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan — these are just some of the places where CITA missionaries and volunteers organize free eye clinics.
Through these clinics, the Ministry not only cares for people’s physical needs, but also fulfills Christ’s Great Commission.
In 2024 alone, 39 eye clinics were held across Ukraine. Eight were held in Ethiopia — one of them had nearly 400 participants. In Ethiopia, both Orthodox believers and Muslims attend these events.
In total, more than 50 eye clinics were held in 17 countries around the world in 2024, with support from CITA.
Facts about our free eye clinics:
- Each event serves at least 90 people.
- People are more open to conversations during the check-ups.
- It’s a tool that often opens doors — even into military bases and prisons.
- Clinics are held in countries where Christians face strong pressure for their faith.
- Equipment and setup are fairly priced.
- After these events, many people become part of the Church.
- Word of mouth spreads — more people come looking for glasses.
- Public opinion toward churches improves.
- Eye clinics bring together local communities and help strengthen relationships.
How do the eye clinics work?
Special equipment and a wide range of eyeglasses are purchased ahead of time. Organizers invite participants in different ways — through messaging apps, local posters, or during street evangelism. A certified eye doctor is invited to conduct the exams.
On the day of the clinic, while people wait their turn, they hear testimonies about Jesus Christ, receive Christian literature, and enjoy some tea. Then the doctor conducts the exam, gives recommendations, and prescribes glasses — all completely free of charge.
In 2023, local media in Rivne, Ternopil, and Zaporizhzhia shared information about CITA’s eye clinics.
Thanks to the eye clinics, churches, CITA ministry, and ministers care for people’s health, pray for the participants, learn about their needs, share about the life of the church community, and invite them to worship services.
